A Book of Ancient Patterns: Linear Format

early twentieth century
4 3/4" x 7 1/2" x 1/2", 12 cm x 19 cm x 1.5 cm
29 pages

This is a book of what appears to be old textile and surface designs, the type of which were produced in early Japanese history, for example during the Nara and Heian periods, from the 8th to the 12th centuries.

Many of the designs show Chinese Buddhist influences or, in fact, are lifted directly from the Buddhist Chinese design lexicon, which tells us that these are depictions of very early Japanese designs: many aspects of Chinese culture were adopted in Japan in its early history, textile designs being among the countless important cultural influences imported from China to Japan.

The book shows upward of 75 individual designs, each of which is rendered in line.

A wonderful resource for the designer.